Apparatus for straightening elongate metal members



` May 27, 1969 w. B. PRIDY 3,446,054

APPARATUS FOR STRAIGHTENING ELONGATE METAL MEMBERS Filed Jan. 16, 1967 Sheet of 3 INVE T R W//frs'r//ve-i' may Arron/ver May 27, 1969 w. B.- PRIDY 3,446,054

APPARATUS FOR STRAIGHTENING ELONGATE METAL MEMBERS Filed Jan. 16, 1967 sheet Z of s 68 66 56 m zza l a 2/2 INVENTOR.

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United States Patent 3,446,054 APPARATUS FOR STRAIGHTENING ELONGATE METAL MEMBERS Whetstine B. Pridy, 6113 Autry Ave., Lakewood, Calif. 90712 Filed Jan. 16, 1967, Ser. No. 609,376 Int. Cl. B21d 7/04, 43/00 U.S. Cl. 72-389 10 Claims ABSTRACT OF' THE DISCLOSURE An improved portable apparatus for straightening elongate members such as tubing, drill pipe, sucker rod, and the like, at a predetermined location, and for removing foreign material from the interior thereof when desired.

Cross-reference to related application The present apparatus is an improvement over the apparatus disclosed and claimed in my Patent No. 2,996,789, entitled, Apparatus for Straightening Elongate Tubular Members, that issued on Aug. 22, 1961.

Background of the invention During the past few years straightening of elongate resilient metallic members such as sucker rod, tubing, drill pipe and the like, in the field, has become a commonly accepted oil field practice, As the scope of such Work in the lield has developed, the need for carrying out these operations in a more rapid and convenient manner has become most important, particularly when it is necessary to straighten heavy tubular members such as drill pipe.

A major object of the present invention is to provide an apparatus and method of using the same by means of which elongate resilient metallic members, irrespective of the weight thereof, may be easily and conveniently straightened on the location in the iield Where they are stored, and when required, also remove foreign material from the interior surfaces thereof.

Another object of the invention is to provide an apparatus for straightening tubular members that requires a minimum of physical exertion on the part of the operators thereof, which apparatus is simple and safe to use, and can be moved easily from one location to another by the use of conventional automotive equipment.

A further object of the invention is to supply a rugged apparatus for straightening tubular members that is less expensive to produce than equipment of this type available heretofore, and one by means of which the straightening operation may be accomplished without appreciable longitudinal tensioning of the corrected elongate members.

A still further object of the invention is to supply a straightening apparatus comprising a rectangular frame that slidably supports a frame extension, with which an endless power-driven chain belt is so associated that the belt may be used not only to substantially retract the eX- tension into the frame, but also be used to move a carriage longitudinally on the frame to straighten an elongate member longitudinally disposed thereon.

Yet another object of the invention is to furnish a straightening apparatus that includes a plurality of hydraulically driven elevator means for sequentially moving elongate rigid members into a position on the apparatus where they may be rotated and straightened, and thereafter moving the straightened members to a location where they are stored for future use.

Surnmaiy of the invention thereof, move tubular members to be straightened into a straightening position, straighten said members, and thereafter by a second power means raise the straightened tubular members and deposit them in a storage area, ready for use.

Description of the drawings FIGUR-E 1 is a perspective view of the apparatus for straightening an elongate tubular member and removing foreign material from the interior thereof;

FIGURE 2 is a combined, longitudinal cross-sectional and side elevational View of a portion of the apparatus shown in FIGURE 1, taken on the line 2 2 thereof;

FIGURE 3 is a combined, longitudinal cross-sectional and side elevational View of a portion of the apparatus shown in FIGURE 1, taken on the line 3 3 thereof;

FIGURE 4 is a fragmentary side elevational view of a portion of the apparatus shown in FIGURE 1, illustrating the manner in which an elongate member is moved to a straightening position thereon;

FIGURE 5 is a front elevational view of that portion of the apparatus shown in FIGURE 4;

FIGURE 6 is a transverse cross-sectional view of a portion of the apparatus taken on the line 6-6 of FIG- URE 1;

FIGURE 7 is a perspective view of one of the supports used on the movable carriage forming a part of said apparatus;

FIGURE 8 is a side elevational View of an endless chain belt supported on first and second sprockets mounted on the frame and frame extension of the apparatus, and illustrating the first step in retracting the frame extension into the frame;

FIGURE 9 is a side elevational view of the endless chain belt shown in FIGURE 8, with the belt in a partial loop as occurs when the frame extension is retracted into the frame;

FIGURE 10 is a side elevational view of a portion of -t-he endless chain belt as the belt is used to move the frame extension rearwardly lfrom the frame;

FIGURE 11 is a. top plan view of the frame extension and the rear of the frame during use of the apparatus to remove foreign material from the interior of a tubular member;

FIGURE l2 is an enlarged longitudinal cross-sectional view of that portion of the apparatus located within the circle shown in phantom line in FIGURE 11;

FIGURE 13 is a transverse cross-sectional view of that portion of the apparatus shown in FIGURE 12, taken on line 13-13 thereof;

FIGURE 14 is a combined horizontal cross-sectional and top plan view of a portion of the apparatus shown in FIGURE 1, taken on the line 14-1'4 thereof;

FIGURE 15 is a longitudinal cross-sectional view of the lower portion of the carriage, showing the manner in which it is removably connected to 'an endless chain belt to be longitudinally moved on the frame and frame extension;

FIGURE 16 is a perspective View of the locking member that removably connects -t-he carriage to the endless chain belt; and

FIGURE 17 is a side elevational View of several of the hydraulic components used in the apparatus.

Description of the preferred embodiment With reference to FIGURE 1 of the drawings for the general arrangement of the invention, it will 'be seen to include an elongate frame A, together with a frame extension B telescopically mounted on the rear end thereof. A carriage C is longitudinally movable on frame A and frame extension B. Carriage C includes two longitudinally spaced supports D, one of ywhich is shown in FIGURE 7,

on which member E rests during straightening thereof. A rotatable driving member F (FIGURE 3) may removably engage the member E as it is being straightened.

As a member E is rotated, it is subjected to a downwardly directed force by a roller G, as best shown in FIGURE 6, that is positioned intermediate the supports. The rear end of the member E being straightened removably engages a heavy tubular body H (FIGURE 2) that rotates Within the confines of a cylindrical guide I.

A hydraulic motor K is located on the forward central portion of frame A, which serves to rotate a driving sprocket L. Sprocket L engages an endless chain belt M (FIGURE 8) that extends along the length of the frame A and extension B. The rear end of belt M engages a sprocket N that is rotatably supported on the rear end of frame extension B. When the apparatus is in the position shown in FIGURE l, the carriage C is moved longitudinally on frame A and extension B due to removable connection thereof to the upper reach 10 of chain belt M by the connector assembly O shown in FIGURES 16 and 17. When it is desired to retract the major portion of frame extension B into frame A, the connector assembly O is freed from the chain belt M, and the assembly P shown in FIGURES 8 and 9 is utilized to move the frame extension B forwardly.

The frame A, as may be seen in FIGURE 1, includes two rst pivotally movable elevator assemblies Q, that are adapted to raise an elongate member E to be straightened from a rack on which it is disposed, `as shown in FIGURE 5, and deposit the same on two longitudinally spaced transverse supports R. The member E may roll by gravity onto two longitudinally spaced second elevators S that are situated within the contines of the frame A. By movement of the second elevators S, the elongate member E may be longitudinally aligned with the driving member F, and removably connected thereto.

After a tubular member E has been straightened by use of the apparatus shown in FIGURE 1, the tubular member E is disconnected from the driving member F, carriage C is advanced to a position forwardly of driving member F, and the second elevators S are actuated to raise the elongate member E -to a position where two elevated longitudinally spaced arms T supported above the frame A may be pivoted thereunder. The arms T tilt slightly outwardly relative to the frame A. As the secOnd elevators S are lowered, the straightened tubular member E is deposited on the arms T, and by gravity rolls outwardly thereon. After the straightened tubular member E traverses the length of the arms T, it rolls onto two second arms U, that direct the straightened pipe onto a rack or pile of pipe (not shown). After a straightened tubular member E has been discharged from the apparatus shown in FIGURE 1, a second tubular member that is to be straightened is placed on the device in the same manner `as previously described.

The structure of the apparatus in detail is as follows. The frame A includes two laterally spaced parallel side pieces 12 and 12a that are open on the rearward end. Two legs 14 extend upwardly at an angle from the forward ends of the side pieces 12 and 12a and develop into two parallel side members 16 that are connected on their forward extremity by an end piece 18. One or more cross pieces 20 extend between the side members 16 and serve to support a prime mover V, which may be an internal combustion engine, electric motor, or the like. The prime mover V on the forward end drives a hydraulic pump W, the purpose of which will later be explained. The prime mover V has a rearwardly extending power takeoff connected to a transmission X, and the transmission by conventional means Y being connected to a gear reduction unit Z that is supported on the forwardly extremity of -the side pieces 12 and 12a.

The gear reduction unit Z, as may best be seen in FIG- URE 3, has a drive shaft 22 projecting `rearwardly from the lower portion thereof, and the driving member F removably engaging drive shaft 22. The drive shaft 22 has circumferentially spaced lingers 24 that removably interlock with fingers 26 on the driving member F, to permit driving members of various sizes -to be driven, depending on the Vsize of the tubular member E being straightened. Three levers 28, 30 and 32 are pivotally `supported on the gear reduction unit Z, and by linkages 28a, 30a and 32a associated therewith serve to control the speed of the engine V, shift the gears in the transmission X, and operate a clutch (not shown) between the prime mover V and transmission X.

The apparatus shown in FIGURE 1 may be moved from place to place as required when the frame extension B is retracted, by an automotive vehicle such as a tractor, -that removably engages the forward portion of the frame A by conventional means (not shown) situated between the side members 16. After the apparatus has reached a desired location, a pair of heavy duty jacks 34 are used to raise the forward portion of the frame A out of engagement with the automotive vehicle (not shown) and support the forward portion of frame A, as shown in FIGURE 1.

The frame A has longidudinally extending reinforcing members 36 and 38 situated under each of the side pieces 12 and 12a, and the reinforcing members 36 and 38 being connected to the side pieces 12 and 12a by a number of longitudinally spaced, upwardly extending connectors 40. A transversely disposed axle 42 is disposed between the two sets of reinforcing members 36 and 38 and is connected to the frame A by conventional means. Two pneumatic tired wheels 44 are rotatably supported on the axle 42. The adjacently disposed ends of the reinforcing members 36 and 38 are connected by heavy curved fender-like members 46.

The carriage C, as may best be seen in FIGURES l and 6, includes a horizontally positioned I-beam 48 that includes a horizontal web 50 that has vertically positioned flanges 52 on the ends thereof.

Each of the supports D, as best seen in FIGURE 7, have longitudinally spaced cylindrical ends 54 that have two slots 56 and 58 formed in the external surfaces thereof. The slots 56 and 58 are normally disposed to one another. The ends 54 are connected by an intermediate portion 60 that has a concave exterior surface that is of substantially the same radius of curvature as that of the external surface of tubular member E being straightened.

Two transversely spaced brackets 62 are provided for each of the supports D, one of which brackets is shown in FIGURE 7, with each bracket including a base 64 and an upwardly extending plate 66. Each plate 66 has a vertically extending rib 68 projecting outwardly from a first surface 70 thereof. Two brackets 62 are provided for each of the slide supports D, with the bases 64 of the brackets 62 being removably affixed to the upper surface of the web 50 by bolts 72, as best seen in FIGURE 6. With the brackets 62 so secured to the web 50, the supports D can be removably supported on the brackets in the position shown in FIGURE 6, with the ribs 68 engaging either of the slots 56 or 58.

When quadrants of the intermediate portions 60 of the supports D wear down, due to slidable contact with members E being straightened, the supports D may be removed from the ribs 68 and rotated 90 and remounted thereon. This operation is repeated as each quadrant of a support D wears down due to contact with tubular member E being straightened, and permits each support D to be utilized to the fullest extent prior to being discarded. The flanges 52 support two heavy, parallel laterally spaced, vertical guide members 74 that extend upwardly therefrom, as may ybest be seen in FIGURE 6. The guide members 74 on the upper end thereof are connected by a horizontal cross piece 75 that supports a heavy `hydraulic cylinder 76. The cylinder 76 has a piston rod 7S projecting downwardly therefrom through an opening (not shown) in cross piece 75. The piston rod 78 is connected to a piston 79 disposed within the contines of the cylinder 76 and slidably movable therein.

The lower end of the piston rod 78 is connected to a heavy force-transmitting member 80 that has side portions 82 that slidably engage longitudinally extending recesses 84 formed on the adjacent surfaces of the guide members 74. Two arms 94 and 94a extend outwardly from the guide members 74 in opposite directions. The arms 94 and 94a are preferably formed from heavy plate and each includes two parallel longitudinally spaced side pieces 96 and 98 that are connected on their outer extremities by an end piece 100, as best seen in FIGURE 6. The inwardly disposed ends of the side pieces 96 and 98 are rigidly axed to the guide members 74 -by conventional means, such as welding or the like. A plate 102, as can best be seen on the left-hand side of the carriage, as illustrated in FIGURE 6, extends between the side pieces 96 and 98 and is rigidly secured thereto. A shaft 104 eX- tends lbetween the end piece 100 and plate 102 and rotatably supports a roller 106 that has a concave exterior surface 108 that rests on the upper surface of one of the side pieces 12, as shown in FIGURE 6.

The arm 94a is of the same general structure as the arm 94, but is substantially of greater length, and instead of including a single roller '106, has a number of longitudinally spaced rollers 106m rotatably supported within the confines thereof, and the rollers 106a resting on the upper surfaces of the side pieces 12a. Rollers 106@ are of the same shape as rollers 106. The arm 94a, as best seen in FIGURE l, supports a hydraulic fluid reservoir 110, as well as a spring-loaded rotata-ble reel structure 112, on which two lengths of heavy duty hydraulic hose 114 and 116 are wound. The hose 114 wound on the reel 112 is in communication with a stationary iitting 118 that has a hose 120 extending therefrom, and the hose 120 being in communication with the lower interior portion of the hydraulic cylinder 76. The hose 116 is similarly connected to a stationary fitting (not shown) on the far side of the reel 112, as illustrated in FIGURE l, and this fitting having a hose 122 extending therefrom that is in communication with the upper interior portion of the hydraulic cylinder 76.

The hoses 114 and 116 are connected to a control valve 124 which valve by a conduit 126 is connected to a throttling valve 128. The valve 128 is connected by a high-pressure conduit '130 to the discharge of the hydraulic pump W, as seen in FIGURE 1. By manual manipulation of a handle 124a, that forms a part of the valve 124, fluid can be discharged into either the highpressure hoses 114 or 116 to a piston 132 slidably disposed within the confines of the cylinder 76 and rigidly connected to the piston rod 78. When hydraulic fiuid is discharged into the cylinder 76 through the hose 122, the piston 132, piston rod 78 and roller G are forced downwardly into pressure contact with the elongate member E being straightened, as best seen in FIGURES 1 and 2.

Two transversely aligned pairs of rigid tubular mem- Ibers 134 and 134a extend downwardly from the side pieces 12 and 12a (FIGURES l and 5). Each pair of members 134 and 134a have transversely aligned bearings '136 supported from the lower ends thereof, The bearings 136 mounted on the lower ends of the member 134 rotatably support two shafts 138 which on their righthand ends, as viewed in FIGURE 5, are connected to two collars 140. Each of the collars 140 has an arm 141 rigidly connected thereto.

Each of the shafts 138, as shown in FIGURE 5, has a cylindrical body 142 mounted on the outer end thereof, which forms a part of the iirst elevators Q. A tubular member 144 extends outwardly from body 142 and adjustably supports a second tubular member 146 that has a number of longitudinally spaced openings 148 formed therein. The irst tubular member 144 has transversely aligned openings 150 formed therein that may be transversly aligned with a desired one of the openings 148, and the openings when so aligned being engageable by a pin 150, as shown in FIGURES 1 and 5. Each of the tubular members 146 on its outer end supports a transversely aligned cross piece 152 thereon. Each of the cross pieces 152 at the ends is formed with a projecting bead 154. The arms 141 are pivotally connected to a longitudinally extending link 156 (FIGURE 5), which link is pivotally connected on its forward end to a piston rod 158. The piston rod 158 is connected to a piston (not shown) in a hydraulic cylinder 160.

Cylinder 160 has the forward end pivotally supported on a transverse shaft 162 that extends between the reinforcing members 36 (FIGURE 1). The hydraulic cylinder 160 has hydraulic connections 164 and 166 that are in communication with a control valve 168, that is supplied hydraulic fluid under pressure through a line that is connected to the valve 124 and in communication with a passage that extends therethrough to the conduit 126 (FIGURE 1). By manual manipulation of a handle 16811 that forms a part of valve 168, iiuid can be discharged under pressure to either of the connections 164 or 166 to move the piston rod 158, link 156, and arms 141 to pivot the first elevators Q to desired positions relative to the frame A.

Two vertically adjustable guides 172 are mounted on the outer ends of the pipe supports R, and may be raised to positions adjacent a rack 174 on which the tubular member E to be straightened rests, as shown in FIGURE 5. The iirst elevators Q are now pivoted to upwardly extending positions (FIGURE 5) by discharging fluid into the hydraulic cylinder 160 to positions where a length of the tubing E can be rolled from the rack 174 thereon. The tubing E when so supported may be moved downwardly by pivoting the elevators Q in a clockwise direction as viewed in FIGURE 1, until the supported tubing E rests on the supports R, as shown in phantom line in FIGURE 5. The tubing E resting on the supports R may then be rolled to the right along the supports R, as shown in FIGURE 5, to drop downwardly onto the second elevators S, and automatically center in a longitudinally extending position thereon.

Each of the second elevators S, as shown in FIGURES 1 and 5, includes a transversely positioned shaft 176 that has the left-hand end portion thereof as viewed in FIGURE 5, journalled within the contines `of one of the collars 170 and the tubular shaft 138 associated with that collar. The right-hand end of each shaft 176 is rotatably supported in a bearing 136 that is aiiixed to the lower end of one of the members 134a. Two parallel, transversely spaced arms 178 are rigidly secured to the shaft 176, with the arms having pipe supports 180 mounted on the outer ends thereof. The supports 180 have curved adjacently disposed ends 182 that define a space 184 therebetween. The space 184 is of less Width than the external diameter of the smallest length of tubing E that is to be straightened. The tubing E after rolling onto the second elevators S, as previously described, automatically centers thereon by resting on the ends 182. The two shafts 176 have levers 186 rigidly secured to the right-hand end portions thereof, as shown in FIGURE 1, and these levers being pivotally connected by a longitudinally extending link 188. The forwardly disposed lever 186 is pivotally connected to a piston rod 190 that is connected to a piston (not shown) that is slidably movable in a hydraulic cylinder 192. The cylinder 192 is pivotally supported on the shaft 162 (FIGURE 1).

The hydraulic cylinder 192 has fluid connections 194 and 196 in communication with the interior end portions thereof and alsoa manually operated valve 198 that is supplied hydraulic fluid through a conduit 200 that is connected to the line 170. When the valve 198 is manually manipulated, hydraulic fluid may be discharged to the cylinder 192 to move the piston rod 190, link 188, levers 186, and raise or lower the second elevators S with the tubing E supported thereon. The elevators S may be so manipulated as to dispose the length of tubing E resting thereon in longitudinal alignment with the driving member F. By gripping the length of tubing E so supported on the two elevators S with a pipe wrench (not shown) to prevent the tubing rotating thereon, and manually moving the tubing E forward, the driving member F may be caused to engage a collar 202 mounted on the forward end of the tubing.

The carriage C has a U-shaped member 204 secured t the underside of the web 50, as may be seen in FIGURE 6, and through which the upper reach of the chain belt M extends. A plate 206 extends transversely across the upper rearward edge portions of the sides of the U- shaped member 204, with the lower edge of the plate being disposed just above the upper extremity of the links 208 that define the reach 10. A locking member 210- is provided in the form of an elongate rigid body, preferably formed of steel, and having a number of longitudinally spaced teeth 212, formed thereon that removably engage the links 208i. The locking member 210 is of such size that when engaging the links 208 of the reach 10, the locking member may be disposed within the contines of the U-shaped member 204 with the rearward end 214 of the locking member abutting against the plate 206. The U-shaped member 204 on its forward portion has two transversely aligned bores 216 formed therein that may be removably engaged by a pin 218 that is situated -for- Iwardly of the locking member 210. The pin 218 and plate 206 serve to hold the locking member 210 within the contines of the U-shaped member 206, and the locking member when so disposed removably connecting the carriage C to the upper reach 10 of chain belt M. When the frame A and frame extension B are disposed as shown in FIGURE 1, and the driving sprocket L rotated, the carriage C may be moved longitudinally on the frame A and frame extension B either forward or rearward, depending upon the direction of rotation of the driving sprocket L.

The frame extension B (FIGURE 1) includes two tubular side pieces 220 and 220a, that are slidably mounted in side pieces 12 and 12a, and as a result the frame extension `B is telescopically adjustable relative to frame A. The rearward end of the side pieces 220 and 22012 are connected `by an end piece 222 of circular transverse cross section. End piece 222 pivotally supports two laterally spaced collars 224 and 224a, with these collars having legs 226 and 226@ projecting therefrom. The legs 226 and 22611 have rollers 228 and 228:1 rotatably supported on the lower ends thereof. Legs 226 and 226a when the frame A and frame extension B occupy the position shown in FIGURE 1, extend downwardly and rearwardly from the frame extension B and are removably supported in this position by chains 230 and 230g. The chains 230 and 230:1 extend forwardly to adjustably engage arms 232 and 23211 that project downwardly from the side pieces 220 and 22011. The free ends of the chains 230a adjustably engage the arms 232 and 232a by conventional means.

A rigid member 234 preferably in the form of a heavy piece of angle iron or channel projects downwardly from the cross piece 224. Member 234, as may be seen in FIGURE 8, supports a transversely positioned horizontal shaft 236 on which the driven sprocket N is rotatably supported. Driving sprocket L and driven sprocket N at all times engage the belt M (FIGURE 8 and 9). The frame A has two identical arms 238 extending downwardly from side pieces 12 and 12a thereof (FIGURES 8 and 9), and these arms on their lower end developing into a cross piece 240 that is disposed between the upper reach 10 of belt M and the lower reach 242 thereof, for reasons that will later be explained.

The forward ends of side pieces 220 and 220a, as shown in FIGURE 10, each have a cable 244 attached thereto. The two cables 244 extend rearwardly in the side pieces 12 and 12a. The cables 244 after emerging from the side pieces 12 and 12a, extend downwardly over two pulleys 246 that are supported by conventional means from the rearward ends of the side pieces 12 and 12a. The cables 244 have hooks 248 mounted on the free ends thereof, as best seen in FIGURE 1. When it is desired to move the frame extension B rearwardly relative to the frame A, the carriage C is disconnected from the belt M and the hooks 248 caused to engage the lower reach 242 of the belt M. By rotating the driving sprocket L in a direction that the lower reach 242 of belt M moves forwardly, the frame extension B may be moved rearwardly relative to frame A until it occupies the portion shown in FIGURE 2. Conventional stop means (not shown) are provided to prevent rearward movement of frame extension B to the extent that the side pieces 220 and 220g are disengaged from the side pieces 12 and 12a.

After the frame extension B has been moved rearwardly to the position shown in FIGURE 1, the hooks 248 are disengaged from belt M, and the carriage C then connected to the belt by use of the locking member 210, as previously described. A bracket 250 extends -upwardly from the rear portion of side piece 220 of frame extension B and rotatably supports a reel 252 on which a cable 254 is wound. An opening (not shown) is formed in the upper portion of bracket 250 that may be brought into transverse alignment with one of a number of openings 256 formed in the reel 252. When openings 256 are so aligned, they may be engaged by a pin 260 to hold reel 252 in a stationary position.

Cable 254 extends forwardly from reel 252 to a pulley assembly 262 mounted on the rear end of a piston rod 264 that is slidably supported in an elongate tubular guide 266. Guide 266 is secured to the outer surface of side piece 12a, and extends along the length thereof. The piston rod 264 is secured to a piston 268 which is slidably movable in a hydraulic cylinder 270. Cylinder 270 in turn is rigidly secured to side piece 12a in longitudinal alignment with guide 266.

The hydraulic cylinder 270 (FIGURE 1) is of conventional construction and includes connections 271 and 273 at the end portions thereof through which hydraulic uid under pressure can be discharged to move the piston 268 either forwardly or rearwardly therein. After engaging the pulley assembly 262, cable 254 extends rearwardly Vtherefrom to engage two laterally spaced pulleys 272 and 274 that are rotatably supported by conventional means from a transverse bar 276, as shown in FIGURE 1. The cable 254 terminates in a conventional cable fitting 278 after passing over pulley 274. Two strands of cable 280 extend forwardly in angular relationship from fitting 278, with the forward ends of each strand being secured to two eye bolts 282 that are attached to the lower portion of a rectangular tubular frame 284. Frame 284 is longitudinally slidable within limits on the side pieces 220 and 220a (FIGURE l). Discharge of hydraulic fluid under pressure to the hydraulic cylinder 270 causes piston 268 to be moved forwardly therein, whereby the pulley assembly 262 moves forwardly.

Such forward movement of the pulley assembly 262, when the reel 252 is held stationary by the pin 260, results in rearward movement of frame 284 until such movement is prevented by two cables 286 which have become taut. The rear ends of cables 286 are aixed to the lower side portions of the frame 284, with the forward cable ends being attached to a pair of supports 134 and 134:1.

A longitudinally extending cylindrical guide I (FIGURE 2) is positioned within the frame 284 and rigidly secured thereto by conventional means such as welding. A transverse slot 288 is formed in the upper portion of guide J, as illustrated in FIGURES 1 and 2. The tubular body H (FIGURE 2) is positioned within the interior of guide J, and an opening 290 is formed in this body that can be brought into alignment with slot 288 whereby the slot and opening may be removably engaged by a pin 292. Pin 292 permits only a limited degree of rotation of body H relative to guide J.

After the elongate member E (FIGURE 3) to be straightened is longitudinally positioned along the frame A and frame extension B as previously described, and connected to the driving member F, the frame 284 may be advanced towards the rear end of member E as it is rotated to cause threads 294 dened thereon to engage 296, as shown in FIGURE 3, formed on the interior forward portion of body H. When the rear end of the member E to 4be worked has been threadedly connected to body H, the pin 292 is manually removed from slot 288 and opening 290 to permit rotation of the member.

A U-shaped frame 298 (FIGURE 3) is slidably supported on the side pieces 220 and 220@ of frame extension B, forwardly of frame 284. Frame 298 rotatably supports two laterally spaced rollers 300 which support the rear end of member E prior to the engagement of threads 294 with threads 296 on body H.

When the member E is supported on the frame A and frame extension B in the manner shown, the driving member F is caused to rotate the elongate member, with the driving sprocket L being concurrently caused to rotate in a direction to move the carriage C rearwardly on frame A and frame extension B. Hydraulic fluid is then discharged to the cylinder 76 shown in FIGURES 1, 3 and 6, to cause the piston rod 78, member 80 and roller G to move downwardly and exert a substantial force on that portion of member E disposed between supports D as it rotates. Rotation of member E, together with the downward force exerted thereon by the roller G between supports D, causes that section of the elongate member between the supports D to progressively straighten, and rotate on a longitudinal axis extending through the "center of the driving member F and tubular body H.

It will be apparent that progress of the straightening operation, that portion of the elongate member E to the rear of the rearmost support D will not as yet be straightened, and accordingly, if not restrained would tend to whip around relative to the frame A and frame extension B. Such whiplash of the unstraightened portion of the member E is prevented by restraining rotational movebment of the tubular body H by means of the guide J. After member E has been straightened, rotation of this tubular member is terminated, and the pin 292 re-inserted in the slot 288 and opening 290.

The direction of rotation of the elongate member E is thereafter reversed to disengage the threads 294 and 296. Fluid under pressure is then discharged to the hydraulic cylinder 270 to cause forward movement of piston rod 264, and in so doing, move frame 284 rearwardly on fra-me extension B until further movement to the rear is prevented by the cables 286 when they become taut. The cables 286 are of such length that they do not become taut until the frame 284 has moved rearwardly sufciently far on the frame extension B that the tubular body H is disposed rearwardly a substantial distance from the rear end of the tubular member E being worked. The member E that has just been straightened is gripped by a wrench (not shown) and the driving member F rotated in the appropriate direction to unscrew it from the collar 202. Carriage C is then moved forwardly on frame A beyond collar 202. Thereafter the second elevators S (FIG- URE 1) are actuated to pivot upwardly and rearwardly to support the straightened member E .a substantial distance above the frame A and fra-me extension B.

The two arms T, as best seen in FIGURES 1 and 14, are mounted on the top portions of two longitudinally spaced tubular uprights 304, the lower portions of which are rotatably supported in two sockets 306 secured to the side piece 12a by two arms 308. An arm 310 (FIGURE 14) extends outwardly from each upright 304, and is pivotally connected to a piston rod 312 that is slidably mounted in a hydraulic cylinder 314 and connected to a piston 31S therein. Fluid under pressure can be discharged into the interior end portions of the cylinders 314 through fluid connections 316 and 318 respectively, to pivot the arms T under the elongate member E which has been straightened and rests on the second elevators S.

The elevators S ,are then caused to pivot into the position shown in FIGURE 1 and the straightened member E transferred to the arms T. By force of gravity member E rolls along the arms T onto the second arms U to drop therefrom onto a stack of straightened elongate members (not shown). The forward end of each of the hydraulic cylinders 314 is pivotally supported from the side piece 12a by conventional means 320 (FIGURE 14). The second .arms U are pivotally supported from the uprights 304 by conventional means, the structural details of which are not shown.

After all the members E have been straightened and it is desired to move the apparatus shown in FIGURE 1 to a new location, the forward portion thereof is caused to be removably connected to an automotive vehicle (not shown) land the jacks disengaged from their supporting position. The carriage C may then be moved to a forward position on the frame A, and the frame extension B partially retracted into the frame. To move the frame extension B forwardly relative to frame A, the locking member 210 is removed from the chain belt M.

A pulley 322 (FIGURE 8) forming a part of a frame retraction assembly AA is supported by a shaft 324 from a body 326 from which a hook 328 projects, and engages an eye 330 on a cable 332 which extends over the cross piece 240. The forward end of cable 332 terminates in a second hook 334 that is caused to engage a link 208 in the lower reach 242 of belt M in the manner shown in FIG- URE 8. The driving sprocket L may then be rotated in a clockwise direction to move the lower reach 242 of belt M forwardly.

As the lower reach 242 so moves, hook 334 is moved forwardly as well as pulley 322, and as this pulley `moves forwardly, it causes a loop 242a to be formed in belt M, as may be seen in FIGURE 9. The length of the belt M is shortened as the length of loop 242a increases, with the shortening of the belt causing forward movement of the frame extension B relative to frame A. After the frame extension B has been telescoped as far as possible into the frame A, the chains 230 are disconnected from the supports 232 (FIGURE 1) and the collars 224 rotated to place the legs 226, 226a and rollers 228 and 228a in positions where they are out of contact with the ground surface. Openings 336 are formed in collars 224, and may be brought into alignment with an opening (not shown) in the cross piece 222. When so aligned, these openings may be engaged by a pin (not shown) to hold the legs 226 and 226g in predetermined positions relative to the frame extension B.

The transverse bar 276 (FIGURE 11) is supported on the rear end of .a tube 338 that is telescopically supported in the rear end portion of the side piece 12a. The tube 338 is telescopically adjusted to the rear portion of the side piece 12a by use of a pin 340 that may be extended transversely through openings 342 in the cross piece 240 and one of a number of longitudinally spaced pairs of openings 344 formed in the tube 338.

Upon occasion it `may be desired to remove foreign material from the interior surface of lan elongate member E which has been straightened, or is substantially straight. When this operation is conducted, the frame A and frame extension B are positioned as shown in FIG- URES 1 and 11, with the rear end of the elongate member E Ibeing rotatably supported on the rollers 300. A rst tube 346 is placed in guide I and removably locked therein by means of pin 292. Tube 346 slidably supports a second tube 348 of square transverse cross section in which a second rigid tube 350 of circular cross section and 11 substantially greater length is slidably supported for longitudinal movement therein.

The forward end of tube 350 is provided with a nozzle 352 from which -a bow spring structure 354 projects forwardly. When the structure 354 is disposed in a tubular member E and the member is rotated relative thereto, the structure 354 cuts foreign material 356 from the interior surface of the rotating member. A pulley 358 is rotatably supported from the forward end of the second tube 348. The rear end of tubular member 350 extends through, and is secured to a plug 360, as best seen in FIGURE 12, that is longitudinally slidable in the second tube 348.

A first cable 362 is secured to plug 360 and extends forwardly through second tube 348 to emerge from the forward end thereof to engage pulley 358. The cable 362 then extends rearwardly over the pulleys 27-4 and 272, and from thence forwardly to engage the pulley structure 262. Cable 362 leads rearwardly from pulley structure 262, and a portion thereof is wound on the reel 252. Reel 252 may be held in a desired stationary position by the pin 260.

Tubular member 360 is provided with a hydraulic fitting 364 in the rear portion thereof that is connected by a fiexible hose 366 to a source of water under pressure. When water is discharged from nozzle 352, cuttings of the foreign material (not shown) are flushed rearwardly through the tubular member E when the member is supported as shown in FIGURE 1l. The pulley structure 262 is caused to move forwardly by means of the hydraulic cylinder 270 and plug 360, together with the tubular member 350 which likewise moves forwardly to cause the bow spring 354 to cut foreign material 356 from the interior surface of an elongate member E as it is caused to rotate.

A second cable 368 is connected to the plug 360 and is used to cause rearward movement of plug 360, tubular member 350 and bow spring structure 354 relative to the tubular member E after removal of foreign material therefrom.

After foreign material has been removed from tubular member E it may then be raised by the second elevators S to be deposited on the arms T, and subsequently roll by force of gravity therefrom onto the arms U for transfer to the ground or onto a pile of stacked members (not shown).

From the above description it will be seen that the apparatus shown in FIGURE l may be used for both straightening a tubular member E as well as removing foreign material from the interior surface thereof.

The use and operation of the invention have previously been described in detail and need not be repeated.

I claim:

1. In a portable apparatus for straightening an elongate resilient metallic member of the type including a wheelsupported horizontally disposed frame, a frame extension telescopically mounted on the rear portion thereof, a carriage longitudinally movable on said frame and frame extension, means on said carriage for subjecting consecutive sections of an elongate resilient metallic member supported longitudinally in said frame and frame extension to a localized bending moment that tends to return said sections to their initial straight configuration, `a horizontal driving member on the forward end of said frame for rotating said tubular member when said tubular member is longitudinally disposed in said frame extension, a prime mover on said frame for rotating said driving member, the improvement for using said apparatus, including:

(a) a driving sprocket rotatably supported on the forward portion of said frame;

(b) power means for rotating said driving sprocket;

(c) a driven sprocket rotatably supported on the rear portion of said frame extension;

(d) `an endless chain belt having upper and lower 12' reaches that engage said driving and driven sprockets and extends longitudinally along said frame and frame extension;

(e) a cross piece on said frame that extends between said upper and lower reaches;

(f) first means for removably connecting said carriage to said belt to permit said carriage to be moved longitudinally on said frame and frame extension when said belt is driven by said driving sprocket;

(g) second means removably connected to said belt when said first means is not connected thereto for moving said frame extension rearwardly relative to said frame when said belt is driven vby said driving sprocket;

(h) third means removably connected to said belt when said first and second means are not connected thereto for causing said lower reach of said belt to loop over said cross piece, with said belt as the length of said loop increases moving said frame extension forwardly into said frame; and

(i) fourth means on said frame extension for causing the rear end of said elongate member on said frame and lframe extension to rotate on the same longitudinal axis as that of said driving member when said frame extension is in an extended position relative to said frame.

2. A portable apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said power means comprises:

(j) a hydraulic motor connected to said driving sprocket;

(k) a hydraulic pump driven by said prime mover;

(l) a hydraulic fluid reservoir;

(m) conduit means connecting said motor, pump and reservoir; and

(n) valve means for controlling the flow of said iiuid from said pump to said motors.

3. A portable apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said first means comprises:

(j) an elongate U-shaped member longitudinally positioned relative to said carriage and affixed to the under portion thereof, with said upper reach of said belt extending through said member;

(k) a transverse plate afiixed to the rear end of said U-shaped member above said belt;

(l) an elongate rigid `block on which teeth are formed that removably engage links on said belt, with the transverse cross section of said block being such as to be disposable in said U-shaped member when in engagement with said links, and when said block is so disposed the same abuts against said plate to move said carriage when said upper reach of said belt is moved rearwardly; and

(m) `a transversely disposed pin removably supported in the forward portion of said U-shaped member, against which said block can abut to move said carriage forwardly when said upper reach of said belt is moved forwardly.

4. A portable apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said second means comprises:

(j) a cable afiixed to the forward extremity of said frame extension and leading rearwardly therefrom;

(k) a pulley mounted on the rear of said frame and which engages said cable; and

(l) a hook mounted on the free end of said cable that removably engages said lower reach of said belt, which lower reach of said belt, when moved forwardly, moves said frame extension rearwardly relative to said frame.

5. A portable apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said third means comprises:

(j) a pulley that engages said lower reach of said belt rearwardly of said cross piece;

(k) a body rotatably supporting said pulley;

(l) a cable affixed to said body; and

(m) a hook mounted on the free end of said cable belt forwardly of said cross piece, which pulley when said lower reach of said belt is moved forwardly loops a portion of said belt over said cross piece, with said belt as it is so looped moving said frame extension forwardly relative to said frame.

6. A portable apparatus as defined in claim 1 wherein said fourth means comprises:

(j) a transverse rectangular first frame slidably supported on said frame extension;

(k) a cylindrical shell longitudinally aligned with said driving member and rigidly affixed to said frame; (l) a cylindrical body rotatably supported in said shell; and

(m) means on said body for removably connecting the forward end thereof to said tubular body.

7. A portable apparatus as defined in claim 1 which further includes:

(j) a second rectangular frame slidably supported on said frame extension forwardly of said first frame;

and

(k) means on said second frame for removably supporting the rear portion of said tubular member in substantial longitudinal alignment with said driving member, lboth before and after said tubular member has been engaged by said fourth means.

8. A portable apparatus as defined in claim 1 which further includes:

(j) two longitudinally spaced first power-driven elevators disposed outwardly from said frame, with said first elevators moving in unison to raise or lower one of said tubular members when said member is resting thereon;

(k) two longitudinally spaced second power-driven elevators disposed in said frame, with said second elevators moving in unison to raise or lower one of said tubular members when said member is resting thereon; and

(l) a plurality of longitudinally spaced, transverse supports projecting outwardly from a first side of said frame on which one of said tubular members can be deposited by said first elevators to thereafter be rolled from said supports onto said second elevators.

9. A portable apparatus as defined in claim 8 wherein said second elevators include:

(m) means for automatically centering one of said elongate members as it rolls thereon in the same vertical plane as the longitudinal axis of said driving member.

10. A portable apparatus as defined in claim 8 which further includes:

(m) two longitudinally spaced uprights pivotally supported from a second side of said frame;

(n) two first arms pivotally supported on the upper portions of said uprights that can be swung under one of said tubular members supported on said elevators to receive said tubular member when said second elevator is lowered, with said second arms slightly tilting downwardly and outwardly relative to said frame; and

(o) two second arms affixed to said uprights that can be pivoted to extend outwardly relative to said frame to receive one of said tubular members as it rolls from said first arms and deliver said tubular member to a desired location away from said frame.

References Cited UNlTED STATES PATENTS 170,461 11/ 1875 Atkinson 72-389 320,610 6/1885 Wood 72-389 673,991 5/ 1901 Alden 725389 1,659,181 2/1928 Woods 72-389 2,336,349 12/ 1943 Ernst 72-389 2,832,394 4/ 1958 Blagden 72,-389 3,335,587 8/1967 Blachut .--.J 72-389 CHARLES W. LANHAM, Primary Examiner. G. P. CROSBY, Assistant Examiner.

U.S. C1. X.R. 72-419, 426 

